Being Brown, Out of Town

Racist attack on Indians in Australian soil has been one of the biggest money makers for the Indian press. It is a genuine concern and I have had many of my loved ones enquire about the 'situation' in Sydney. I have been here for over a year and what happened today is an interesting episode that fits well in this category.

For starters, I am Indian and I live in Sydney. Life has been great so far and I have not got into any 'racial' trouble, so to speak. Today was one of those days when I wanted to get my hands on some good Indian food and so my friends and I went for a drive in search of an affordable, yet enjoyable biriyani. We looked up on Google for restaurants in the vicinity and decided on a location that looked very 'Indian'.

Seated at the door was an old gentleman who resembled one of those men who stood at the entrance and great you outside our restaurants in India. I smiled at him, but I got none in return- maybe he was not in his best mood. We walked in and sat at a table for four. The prices were ridiculously high- I guess that explains why there was no one else but us and the waiters. We placed our order as we scanned through the environment. Framed pictures on the wall made it obvious that the gentleman at the door owned the joint. 

As we waited for our food a couple of white folks walked in. The gentleman at the door put on a broad smile and welcomed them. I gave him the benefit of doubt. The new customers were entertained with such grace that I started feeling ... you know ... small. Another white couple walked in and they received the same treatment.

The owner stood by them and served them personally. My friends and I were observing the whole thing. I joked at how racist the guy was. But the mood turned more serious when my friend told me how he was a waiter and was 'trained' at another Indian restaurant. The waiters are advised to serve the white well as they tip you more. 

I paid the bill and proceeded to walk out. The man yelled out a lifeless and obligatory 'thanks' at us. Maybe he was glad we were leaving. 

I'd like to make a statement here, just to my Indian mates. Don't just blame the foreigners for being racists. Kill the racist in you before you comment on racism.